Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb presented the budget for the upcoming financial year on Friday and two things he announced grabbed people’s attention for the best reason.
In his speech, the minister said the government would be withdrawing taxes placed on contraceptives and sanitary pads. The move was hailed as a win for women and an important step in providing safe and affordable menstrual care to the public.
Netizens applauded the government for taking the step which will have an immediate, positive impact for the country’s women.
One user pointed out how Pakistan was set to join a lamentably small group of countries that don’t tax menstrual hygiene products.
Others felt the whole idea of taxing such essential goods was “ridiculous”. They were happy to see the taxes go.
There was also acknowledgement of Mahnoor Omer, the women’s rights activist who filed a case in the Lahore High Court against taxing menstrual hygiene product in September. She was later recognised as one of TIME magazine’s Women of the Year for her efforts. Another petition was filed in the Sindh High Court by Karachi’s Alishba Shabbir in November.
Not everyone was convinced this was enough, especially when it came to the adoption of contraceptives in a country severely burdened by overpopulation. One user said the withdrawal of taxes wouldn’t do make to increase their acceptance in Pakistani society.
The removal of the taxes is expected to be implemented in the coming fiscal year, which starts from July 1.
